Canucks sign top 2008 draft choice Hodgson to entry-level contract

"Cody has done what we expected him to do," said Canucks general manager Mike Gillis. "He came in really well prepared."

Hodgson, chosen 10th overall, recorded one assist and six penalty minutes in three pre-season games with the Canucks. He did not suit up in Sunday's final pre-season finale against Anaheim.

"Cody is a mature young man and he showed us everything we need to see to sign him," said Gillis.

But Gillis said the club's management has yet to decide whether Hodgson will start the season in the NHL or return to junior.

Hodgson, an 18-year-old centre from Haliburton, Ont., is trying to become the first top draft pick to stick with the Canucks since Petr Nedved in 1990.

Last season, Hodgson scored 40 goals and 45 assists with Brampton Battalion of the OHL and five goals in as many first-round playoff games. He also served as captain of the Canadian team which won gold at the 2008 IIHF Under-18 World Championships, producing two goals and a tournament-high 10 assists as well as winning a gold medal with Team Ontario at the 2007 Canada Winter Games.